bert
[Entry]
"400Mhz/64MB of RAM is OK under Linux to do a number of things, including running a file server, a small webserver, etc. With Linux the possibilites are endless here.
Generally, almost every ""embedded"" device has one of the following that you can use to install Linux if possible:
A way to update the firmware - if the device does not insist on a signed update, this is the usual and easiest way. DD-WRT does this, they offer files which you upload to the firmware update web page instead of official updates.
A serial port, pins to attach a cable, or solder pads where you can attach a port, pins or wires. This usuaully is meant to give you access to the bootloader of the device, where you may be able to tell it to load something other than the firmware in flash. @Lee B is correct, the Debian installer, for example, runs over a serial port if configured correctly.
A JTAG port, pins to attach a cable, or solder pads where you can attach a port, pins or wires. This allows you to program the flash chip on the board directly. This is advanced and not usually done unless there is no way into the firmware or bootloader. You need to have a flash image ready, either the one from the manufacturer or one you made. Typically this is a step in recovering a bricked device.
It takes a lot of time and effort to try to figure this out and that's why communities tend to build around such ""hacks"" of devices."
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